Colonoscopy

Definition

A colonoscopy is an exam of the large intestine, also known as the colon. The exam is done with a tool called a colonoscope. The colonoscope is a flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end. This tool allows the doctor to view the inside of your colon.

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure.

On the day of the procedure:

Wear comfortable clothing.

Arrange for a ride home after the procedure.

Emptying the Colon

Your colon must be completely clean before the procedure. Any stool left in the colon will block the view. This preparation may start several days before the procedure. Follow your doctor's instructions, which may include any of the following cleansing methods:

Enemas
—fluid introduced into the rectum to stimulate a bowel movement

Laxatives—medications that cause you to have soft bowel movements

Oral cathartic medications—a large container of fluid to drink that stimulates a bowel movement

For the entire day before your procedure:

Do not eat any solid foods. This includes milk or cream in your coffee.

If you have diabetes, ask your doctor if you need to adjust your insulin dose

Anesthesia

Your doctor may give you medication to help you relax.

Description of the Procedure

You will lie on your left side. Your knees will be drawn up toward your chest. The colonoscope will be slowly inserted through the rectum. The colonoscope will inject air into the colon. The doctor will be able to see the lining of the colon with a small video camera on the colonoscope. The colonoscope will be gently passed through the colon to view the entire area.

A tissue sample or polyps may be removed during the procedure. This is done with small tools passed through the colonoscope.

How Long Will It Take?

Less than one hour

Will It Hurt?

Most people report some discomfort when the instrument is inserted. You may feel cramping, muscle spasms, or lower abdominal pain during the procedure. You may also feel the urge to move your bowels. Tell the doctor if you feel any severe pain.

After the procedure, gas pains and cramping are common. These pains should go away with the passing of gas.

Post-procedure Care

If any tissue was removed:

It will be sent to a lab to be examined. It may take 1-2 weeks for results. The doctor can usually give an initial report after the scope is removed. Other tests may be advised.

A small amount of bleeding may occur during the first few days after the procedure.

Be sure to follow your doctor's
instructions when you return home.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occur:

Bleeding from your rectum—Notify your doctor if you pass a teaspoonful of blood or more.

Black, tarry stools

Severe abdominal pain

Hard, swollen abdomen

Signs of infection, including fever or chills

Inability to pass gas or stool

Coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe nausea or vomiting

In case of an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.